Radio Atlantic, IA – AM 1220

Flooding Concerns Prompt Action Along Missouri River

June 2nd, 2011 by Ric Hanson

(DES MOINES) – In response to flooding concerns along the Missouri River, officials
from several key response agencies came together today to plan for what will be “an
extensive flood fight,” according to officials with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
Water levels in reservoirs along the Missouri River in South Dakota have risen to
the point where it will become necessary for the Army Corps of Engineers to begin
releasing more water downstream – which will cause flooding in Nebraska, Iowa and
eventually Missouri.
Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, together with their many local,
state and federal partners, continue to monitor the situation and provide resources
to those areas impacted by flooding.
At this time, only one mandatory evacuation has been ordered in Iowa as a result of
flooding along the Missouri River. (Pottawattamie)
Woodbury County
• The county has declared a state of emergency to enable emergency purchases
and assistance.
• 250,000 sandbags have been supplied to the city of Sioux City by the Army
Corps of Engineers.
• Most citizens that will be impacted by the flooding will be because of lack
of access to their homes.
• Officials are also keeping an eye on Floyd River and Perry Creek, which may
have a greater impact to homeowners than the Missouri River.
Monona County
• The county has requested 70,000 sandbags and technical assistance from the
Army Corps of Engineers.
• Monona County officials will conduct an informational meeting regarding the
possible flooding which will impact areas in Monona County. The meeting will take
place on Thursday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at West Monona High School, 1314 Fifteenth
Street in Onawa.
Harrison County
• The county has a supply of sandbags but has not placed any at this point.
Pottawattamie County
• A small neighborhood with few homes in Council Bluffs was evacuated late
last week. These homes are located on the "wet side" of the levee.
• Pottawattamie County has issued a local emergency declaration to enable
emergency purchases.
Fremont
• The county has requested 30,000 sandbags from the Army Corps of Engineers.
• Hamburg is NOT currently under an evacuation order, however, citizens have
been advised by local officials to not rely on the levee.
(Press release from the office of IA Gov. Terry Branstad)